Pre-Operative Instructions

1) Medications

• NSAIDs (Ibuprofen, Aleve, Aspirin, Advil, Naproxen, etc.): Stop 5–7 days before your procedure.

• Blood Thinners / Anticoagulants: Only stop with approval from your prescribing provider.

• Weight-loss/diabetes injection medications (GLP-1 medications):
  Mounjaro (Tirzepatide), Ozempic, Wegovy, Trulicity, Rybelsus, etc. must be stopped 7 days before your procedure.

• Other Daily Medications: Continue your usual medications (heart, blood pressure, thyroid, cholesterol, etc.) with a small sip of water the morning of your procedure.

2) Diabetic Patients

• Monitor blood sugar closely.
• Reduce long-acting insulin dose by 50% the morning of your procedure.
• Hold oral diabetes medications if fasting longer than 8 hours.
• Bring your glucose monitor and supplies with you.
• Your blood sugar should be under 200 on the day of the procedure.

3) Fasting (NPO Guidelines)

• All patients must not eat or drink anything after midnight the night before the procedure.
• You may take your essential morning medications with a small sip of water.

4) Hygiene

• Shower the night before and/or the morning of your procedure with antibacterial soap.
• Do not wear makeup, lotions, oils, perfumes, or deodorants.
• Remove nail polish from at least two fingers (for monitoring equipment).

5) What to Bring

• Photo ID
• Updated medication list
• Glasses (no contact lenses)
• Comfortable, loose-fitting clothing
• Completed paperwork

6) Transportation

If Sedation Is Planned:

• You must have a responsible adult (18+) drive you to and from your procedure.
• Your driver must remain on site during the procedure.
• Public transportation, taxis, and rideshares are not allowed unless accompanied by your responsible adult.
• If you do not have a driver, your procedure will be rescheduled.

If No Sedation:

• • You may drive yourself unless otherwise instructed.

7) Allergies

• Notify staff of any known allergies to medications, latex, or contrast dye.

Post-Operative Instructions

Immediately After the Procedure

• You will be monitored for 15–30 minutes.
• If sedated, your driver must be present before discharge.
• Mild numbness or soreness at the injection site is normal.

For the First 24 Hours (if Sedated)

• No driving
• No alcohol
• No heavy lifting
• Rest, then gradually return to normal activities as tolerated

Pain Relief Expectations

• Mild discomfort, soreness, or numbness is normal.
• Use ice packs (15–20 minutes at a time) for relief.
• If steroids were used, pain relief may take 3–7 days to begin.

Call Our Office or Go To The ER If You Experience:

• Fever over 101°F
• Severe pain or swelling
• Signs of infection (redness, drainage at injection site)
• Difficulty breathing, new weakness, or loss of function

Call (424) 254-3592 

Follow-Up

• A follow-up appointment is typically scheduled 2 weeks after your procedure.
• Please bring any questions or concerns to discuss with your provider.